For a Better Disaster Management in Türkiye's 100th Anniversary: District Disaster Management

Abstract

On the planet, there are various natural hazards, and in the coming years, their frequencies and intensities are likely to vary. These disasters can be diversified into subcategories. Regardless of the way disasters occur, the consequences they create can lead to catastrophic outcomes for both humanity and the environment. It is evident that inequalities among countries result in some nations bearing a more severe burden of the consequences, despite being less responsible for environmental degradation. Due to inadequate infrastructure and financial resources, these countries endure the repercussions more harshly and become more vulnerable. Despite differences in the levels of fragility and development among countries, it is possible to minimize the risks of disasters turning into catastrophes through organized disaster management. In the study, the distinction between the terms hazard, disaster, and catastrophe is clarified in order to eliminate conceptual confusion. Additionally, the development indices of countries and their vulnerability to disasters are evaluated. In the second section, the essential elements of effective disaster management are outlined in subcategories. The third and final section of the study elaborates with examples on why district disaster management plans should be an effective model in disaster management.